The LORD brings death and makes alive; he brings down to the grave and raises up. 1 Samuel 2:6
This snippet is really quite straightforward to the Christian. You may notice its similarity to Job 1:21, “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.” It becomes more interesting; however, when we notice who said it. These words were part of a prayer spoken by Hannah after the Lord awarded her with the blessing of her long-awaited Samuel. She begins the prayer with the words, “You make me strong and happy, Lord. You rescued me.” (1 Samuel 2:1). What beautifully spoken words that we too can enjoy! We can appreciate the truth that all life is managed by God. He alone controls it. And would we have it any other way? Thank God that you were born at the exact moment God willed it, and you will leave this world at the time appointed—because of his great love!
A word of wisdom for a sticky note:
“If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord!” Romans 14:8
Today my prayer includes . . .
thanks for this special blessing:
concern for this special person:
petition for this special problem:
A closing verse:
We are the Lord’s; His all sufficient merit,
Sealed on the cross, to us this grace accords.
We are the Lord’s and all things shall inherit;
Whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.
Karl J. Spitta
From Hope for Each New Day by Reynold R. Kremer